GLOUCESTER GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Off Gloucester: A 3–4‑Hour Narrated Run to Stellwagen Bank Aboard the Privateer IV
A guided, narrated whale‑watching cruise from historic Gloucester that visits Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary on the Privateer IV—this guide distills what to expect, what to bring, and how to plan your trip.
Off Gloucester: A 3–4‑Hour Narrated Run to Stellwagen Bank Aboard the Privateer IV.
Departing from historic Gloucester, this guided, narrated whale‑watching cruise runs 3 to 4 hours aboard the Privateer IV and travels out to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to search for whales and other marine life.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Board the Privateer IV
The trip is operated aboard the Privateer IV, a narrated, guided vessel that departs from Gloucester for a concentrated 3–4 hour outing to prime feeding grounds.
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
The tour runs out to Stellwagen Bank, a productive marine sanctuary and the primary destination for the operator’s whale‑watching trips.
A Short, Focused Cruise
At roughly three to four hours, the outing is designed to balance offshore time with a comfortable half‑day window for families and day‑trippers.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
You’ll board the Privateer IV in Gloucester, settle into a narrated run offshore, and spend three to four hours traversing waters en route to Stellwagen Bank—an outward sweep that concentrates time where whales feed and watchers gather.
THE VESSEL
Board the Privateer IV
The trip is operated aboard the Privateer IV, a narrated, guided vessel that departs from Gloucester for a concentrated 3–4 hour outing to prime feeding grounds.
THE DESTINATION
Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
The tour runs out to Stellwagen Bank, a productive marine sanctuary and the primary destination for the operator’s whale‑watching trips.
THE TIMING
A Short, Focused Cruise
At roughly three to four hours, the outing is designed to balance offshore time with a comfortable half‑day window for families and day‑trippers.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits best.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Air temperatures on the water are typically about 15 degrees cooler than on land; although there is a heated cabin, a sweatshirt or jacket is recommended. Sunglasses are also suggested.
Plan for a 3 to 4 hour cruise.
2026 fares: Adults $65, Children $50, Seniors $60, Discounted $55 for AAA, Military, and Students with valid ID.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The narrated whale‑watching tour runs approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Where do I meet the boat?
The Privateer IV is docked at 63 Rogers Street, Gloucester, MA 01930; directions are included in confirmation emails and guests should arrive 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a sweatshirt or jacket because air temperatures on the water are typically about 15 degrees cooler than on land; a heated cabin is available and sunglasses are recommended.
What are the ticket prices and discounts?
2026 ticket rates are Adults $65, Children $50, Seniors $60, and a Discounted rate of $55 for AAA, Military, and Students with valid ID.
Is the trip suitable for children and seniors?
Yes—the outing is described as all ages, making it suitable for children and seniors who can board the vessel.